Haggle, haggle

272

4 It is very difficult for me to rationalize haggling; it feels like a cheapskate way to evade paying the seller what he or she is due. However, many vendors purposefully inflate their prices so that they can offer a special “discount” just for you, or at least still make a profit off the lower price on which you settle. Therefore, it is important to remember that, especially in flea markets, sellers expect you to haggle with them. Do not be afraid to negotiate with the vendor, because otherwise you will pay much more than the item is worth. But how does one haggle? There are many techniques, so I will only go over the simplest ones. First, pick a price lower than the one you want to pay; this way you leave room for bargaining. When the seller counters your offer, you both move closer to the price you are hoping to get. In this way you are most likely to pay what you think the item is worth to you. Another helpful technique is appearing uncertain- if the seller thinks that you are on the fence, they might lower their price a bit more for you. But beware of taking up too much of the seller’s time, because they may give up on you in frustration if they don’t think you are ever going to make a decision. Last (and this is the one I have trouble with), remain firm in your position. If you don’t want to pay more than a certain price, don’t let the seller pressure you into paying it. If you have to, walk away- the vendor might lower their price for you at the last second if they see a potential sale leaving. So where does one do all this haggling? Like I said, flea markets and tourist shops are the main locations for haggling. Tourist shops are all over the city, but flea markets can be a bit harder to find. Two of my favorites are at the Borghetto Flaminio and Porta Portese. Borghetto Flaminio is located on Via Flaminio, a few blocks from Piazza del Popolo. Porta Portese, the largest flea market in Rome, extends from Via Portuense to Via Ippolito Nievo. Both markets are only open on Sundays, so make sure you get there early! See <a href="http://wikitravel.org/en/Haggle">here</a> for more haggling tips! 0

2010-03-09T14:07:08+01:00

true

Something you learn very quickly here in Rome is the art of haggling- that is, bargaining with a vendor to get the best possible price. When you go to flea markets or tourist shops, haggling is almost a given, especially if you don’t want to pay inflated prices.

Something you learn very quickly here in Rome is the art of haggling- that is, bargaining with a vendor to get the best possible price. When you go to flea markets or tourist shops, haggling is almost a given, especially if you don’t want to pay inflated prices.

839 haggle-haggle

2010-03-09T14:07:08+01:00

published It is very difficult for me to rationalize haggling; it feels like a cheapskate way to evade paying the seller what he or she is due. However, many vendors purposefully inflate their prices so that they can offer a special “discount” just for you, or at least still make a profit off the lower price on which you settle. Therefore, it is important to remember that, especially in flea markets, sellers expect you to haggle with them. Do not be afraid to negotiate with the vendor, because otherwise you will pay much more than the item is worth. But how does one haggle? There are many techniques, so I will only go over the simplest ones. First, pick a price lower than the one you want to pay; this way you leave room for bargaining. When the seller counters your offer, you both move closer to the price you are hoping to get. In this way you are most likely to pay what you think the item is worth to you. Another helpful technique is appearing uncertain- if the seller thinks that you are on the fence, they might lower their price a bit more for you. But beware of taking up too much of the seller’s time, because they may give up on you in frustration if they don’t think you are ever going to make a decision. Last (and this is the one I have trouble with), remain firm in your position. If you don’t want to pay more than a certain price, don’t let the seller pressure you into paying it. If you have to, walk away- the vendor might lower their price for you at the last second if they see a potential sale leaving. So where does one do all this haggling? Like I said, flea markets and tourist shops are the main locations for haggling. Tourist shops are all over the city, but flea markets can be a bit harder to find. Two of my favorites are at the Borghetto Flaminio and Porta Portese. Borghetto Flaminio is located on Via Flaminio, a few blocks from Piazza del Popolo. Porta Portese, the largest flea market in Rome, extends from Via Portuense to Via Ippolito Nievo. Both markets are only open on Sundays, so make sure you get there early! See <a href="http://wikitravel.org/en/Haggle">here</a> for more haggling tips! Haggle, haggle

2010-03-09T14:08:47+01:00

272

4 This is not meant to scare you out of talking to boys when you’re in a bar or acknowledging a “ciao” here and there. Nor is it meant to proclaim that every Italian man disrespects women. It is simply meant to keep you informed and aware of what can and does occasionally happen to unsuspecting girls. For instance, a precedent was set in Italian court that states that women who cross the threshold into an Italian man’s home or apartment are consenting to whatever may follow. Another precedent set declares that women in skinny jeans must have helped remove them and therefore must have consented to what followed. So when you go out to a bar (especially in Campo de’ Fiori, where Italian men with a one-track mind troll for American girls), make sure that you stay with your friends. Do not wander off alone with a boy you have just met, and do not let your friends do so if they have been drinking- they might regret it the next morning. My friends and I actually tell boys that the residence in which we stay checks to make sure everyone is inside at 2 am, when they close the gates (none of which is true). That way, we are all able to leave together before things have a chance to get out of hand. In sum: Be careful, be safe, be aware, and have a great time in Rome! 0

2010-02-23T14:56:24+01:00

true

Based purely on my own experiences, as well as those of my friends here, some Italian men have fully earned their stereotype. Calling out, “Ciao, bella,” is as instinctual as breathing to many of them whenever a girl crosses their path. Therefore, it benefits your safety to assume that Roman men are only after one thing.

Based purely on my own experiences, as well as those of my friends here, some Italian men have fully earned their stereotype. Calling out, “Ciao, bella,” is as instinctual as breathing to many of them whenever a girl crosses their path. Therefore, it benefits your safety to assume that Roman men are only after one thing.

838 ciao-bella

2010-02-23T14:56:24+01:00

published This is not meant to scare you out of talking to boys when you’re in a bar or acknowledging a “ciao” here and there. Nor is it meant to proclaim that every Italian man disrespects women. It is simply meant to keep you informed and aware of what can and does occasionally happen to unsuspecting girls. For instance, a precedent was set in Italian court that states that women who cross the threshold into an Italian man’s home or apartment are consenting to whatever may follow. Another precedent set declares that women in skinny jeans must have helped remove them and therefore must have consented to what followed. So when you go out to a bar (especially in Campo de’ Fiori, where Italian men with a one-track mind troll for American girls), make sure that you stay with your friends. Do not wander off alone with a boy you have just met, and do not let your friends do so if they have been drinking- they might regret it the next morning. My friends and I actually tell boys that the residence in which we stay checks to make sure everyone is inside at 2 am, when they close the gates (none of which is true). That way, we are all able to leave together before things have a chance to get out of hand. In sum: Be careful, be safe, be aware, and have a great time in Rome! Ciao, bella!

2010-02-23T14:57:50+01:00

272

4 So I’ve gotten familiar with the bookstores in Rome that have a small English section, usually just one wall tucked away in a rarely-used corner of the store, in order to find something worth my while. Just yesterday, I stopped at Mondadori and bought two books (my guilty pleasure, especially because I’m running low on “i soldi”): The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, and The Host (yes, by the author of the Twilight series). I know that I’m in Rome and should thus be spending all of my time taking advantage of that, but every once in a while, or while traveling on the metro, it’s nice to be able to sit down with a good book (and a can of Coca Cola Light, if you want my honest opinion). In fact, I’ve already read through the first 100+ pages of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo because it’s so interesting. I may have to make another stop at a bookstore sooner than I thought! If you’re looking for a good book in English, check out one of these stores (and if you can’t find it, ask: “Dov’e la sezione inglese?”): Mondadori, via del corso, 472. http://www.negozimondadori.it/ The Lion Bookstop, via dei greci, 36. http://www.thelionbookshop.com/ Anglo-American Bookstore, via della vite, 102. http://www.aab.it/ 0

2010-02-17T16:17:40+01:00

true

Although the majority of my time is occupied with walking, touring sites, hanging with friends, going to class, working at my internship, and wasting time on the computer, I still find time in the day when I don’t have anything to do. What’s a poor English major to do when she has free time? Read, of course!

Although the majority of my time is occupied with walking, touring sites, hanging with friends, going to class, working at my internship, and wasting time on the computer, I still find time in the day when I don't have anything to do. What's a poor English major to do when she has free time? Read, of course!

837 read-in-rome-leggere-a-roma

2010-02-17T16:17:40+01:00

published So I've gotten familiar with the bookstores in Rome that have a small English section, usually just one wall tucked away in a rarely-used corner of the store, in order to find something worth my while. Just yesterday, I stopped at Mondadori and bought two books (my guilty pleasure, especially because I'm running low on "i soldi"): The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, and The Host (yes, by the author of the Twilight series). I know that I'm in Rome and should thus be spending all of my time taking advantage of that, but every once in a while, or while traveling on the metro, it's nice to be able to sit down with a good book (and a can of Coca Cola Light, if you want my honest opinion). In fact, I've already read through the first 100+ pages of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo because it's so interesting. I may have to make another stop at a bookstore sooner than I thought! If you're looking for a good book in English, check out one of these stores (and if you can't find it, ask: "Dov'e la sezione inglese?"): Mondadori, via del corso, 472. http://www.negozimondadori.it/ The Lion Bookstop, via dei greci, 36. http://www.thelionbookshop.com/ Anglo-American Bookstore, via della vite, 102. http://www.aab.it/ Read in Rome: Leggere a Roma

2010-02-17T16:21:37+01:00

271

4 The great thing about any city is the variety of events and places to go on any given night. Rome has proved to be a haven for a wide variety of tastes. Some friends and I came across this great caffe’, Caffe’ Vicolo Del Cinque in Trastevere. It has a wide variety of drinks and the atmosphere is very relaxed. The walls are decorated with art from all over the world and almost every Wednesday night a jazz duo from New York City, by the name of Lady Brett performs. If you’re looking for a laid-back atmosphere with either some friends or a date, this caffe’ is a great place to escape for a while. 1

2010-02-11T11:35:00+01:00

true

836 caffe-vicolo-del-cinque

2010-02-11T11:35:00+01:00

published The great thing about any city is the variety of events and places to go on any given night. Rome has proved to be a haven for a wide variety of tastes. Some friends and I came across this great caffe', Caffe' Vicolo Del Cinque in Trastevere. It has a wide variety of drinks and the atmosphere is very relaxed. The walls are decorated with art from all over the world and almost every Wednesday night a jazz duo from New York City, by the name of Lady Brett performs. If you're looking for a laid-back atmosphere with either some friends or a date, this caffe' is a great place to escape for a while. Caffe' Vicolo Del Cinque

2010-02-11T15:13:39+01:00

272

4 With many locations, such as Via Flaminia, 42, and Via Colonna Marcantonio,38, the Mondo Arancina chain is a tasty find that will leave you coming back for more. Although most well-known for their distinctive fried rice balls, Mondo also has fairly decent pizza and an eclectic assortment of pastries. The best part: everything is relatively cheap, and therefore that much tastier when you’re not looking to spend a fortune on good food. For more information, check out their website at www.mondoarancina.it, or just head directly to the nearest one- you won’t regret it! 0

2010-02-11T10:27:03+01:00

true

For a unique Sicilian experience right here in Rome, make sure you stop in one of the many locations of Mondo Arancina, which literally means, “World of the Fried Rice Ball.” Sound delicious? It is.

For a unique Sicilian experience right here in Rome, make sure you stop in one of the many locations of Mondo Arancina, which literally means, "World of the Fried Rice Ball." Sound delicious? It is.

835 mondo-arancina-world-of-the-fried-rice-ball

2010-02-11T10:27:03+01:00

published With many locations, such as Via Flaminia, 42, and Via Colonna Marcantonio,38, the Mondo Arancina chain is a tasty find that will leave you coming back for more. Although most well-known for their distinctive fried rice balls, Mondo also has fairly decent pizza and an eclectic assortment of pastries. The best part: everything is relatively cheap, and therefore that much tastier when you're not looking to spend a fortune on good food. For more information, check out their website at www.mondoarancina.it, or just head directly to the nearest one- you won't regret it! Mondo Arancina: World of the Fried Rice Ball

2010-02-11T10:27:26+01:00

270

4 Think you’ve tried the best gelato? Not yet? Check out Blue Ice. These ice cream stores are all over the city in Trastevere, Campo di fiori, Fontana di Trevi, everywhere. Choose the flavor of your taste. They offer a great variety of flavors from stratsiatella to mango sorbet. Add sprinkles, nuts or caramel topping for a more delicious experience!! 1

2010-02-03T20:55:03+01:00

true

834 blue-ice

2010-02-03T20:55:03+01:00

published Think you've tried the best gelato? Not yet? Check out Blue Ice. These ice cream stores are all over the city in Trastevere, Campo di fiori, Fontana di Trevi, everywhere. Choose the flavor of your taste. They offer a great variety of flavors from stratsiatella to mango sorbet. Add sprinkles, nuts or caramel topping for a more delicious experience!! Blue Ice

2010-02-09T13:27:08+01:00

271

4 I have been in Rome for three weeks, yet everything is quite comfortable already. I have noticed that it is like any city, easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle. What I could recommend to anyone would be to spend some time in a small town. I think without having this experience, one cannot feel the true Italian culture. I had the opportunity to venture to a small town in Umbria called Gualdo this weekend with some friends. While Italians are known for their hospitable manner, I don’t believe that Rome gives you the full effect of this behavior. In small little towns, where tourists are not a regular item, you would not believe how excited the people are to engage in conversation. They are intrigued to understand your life and are in no way shy to tell you about theirs. It is here that you can truly get a feel for the Italian manner and practice any language skills you are acquiring while here. Each region of Italy has its own customs and manners and it is fascinating to have the opportunity to learn about them all. 0

2010-02-02T19:57:58+01:00

true

833 small-town-italy

2010-02-02T19:57:58+01:00

published I have been in Rome for three weeks, yet everything is quite comfortable already. I have noticed that it is like any city, easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle. What I could recommend to anyone would be to spend some time in a small town. I think without having this experience, one cannot feel the true Italian culture. I had the opportunity to venture to a small town in Umbria called Gualdo this weekend with some friends. While Italians are known for their hospitable manner, I don’t believe that Rome gives you the full effect of this behavior. In small little towns, where tourists are not a regular item, you would not believe how excited the people are to engage in conversation. They are intrigued to understand your life and are in no way shy to tell you about theirs. It is here that you can truly get a feel for the Italian manner and practice any language skills you are acquiring while here. Each region of Italy has its own customs and manners and it is fascinating to have the opportunity to learn about them all. Small Town Italy

2010-02-02T19:57:58+01:00

272

4 The Scholars Lounge Irish Pub (‘Scholars’ for short) is an Irish-owned-and-run bar not far from the Pantheon, at Via Del Plebiscito, 101b. When you walk in, you are greeted by dark wood paneling, several big-screen TV’s, and a well stocked bar. Whether you want to nurse a five-euro Guinness in the corner by the balcony, or bring a couple of friends to watch the game, Scholars has a casual, laid-back atmosphere that will make you feel right at home. Don’t miss Tuesday nights at 10:30 karaoke-you might seem me there! Check out the website at scholarsloungerome.com for more events and information. 0

2010-02-02T13:35:49+01:00

true

If you’re looking for a little taste of home with an Irish twist, this hole-in-the-wall bar is the place for you!

If you're looking for a little taste of home with an Irish twist, this hole-in-the-wall bar is the place for you!

832 scholars-lounge-irish-pub

2010-02-02T18:51:00+01:00

published The Scholars Lounge Irish Pub ('Scholars' for short) is an Irish-owned-and-run bar not far from the Pantheon, at Via Del Plebiscito, 101b. When you walk in, you are greeted by dark wood paneling, several big-screen TV's, and a well stocked bar. Whether you want to nurse a five-euro Guinness in the corner by the balcony, or bring a couple of friends to watch the game, Scholars has a casual, laid-back atmosphere that will make you feel right at home. Don't miss Tuesday nights at 10:30 karaoke-you might seem me there! Check out the website at scholarsloungerome.com for more events and information. Scholars Lounge Irish Pub

2010-02-03T04:05:56+01:00

251

4 Personality Development/Soft Skills training for students and company staff. The duration of the training is 30 days x 2 hours per day. The training is available at the student’s residence, colleges/institutions or company office. For more details call Brian on 922320341 / 9920927662 / 9323758803, Borivali, Mumbai, India. Listed below in random order are the topics covered to develop and motivate the skills of the student’s or staff. The training is also available in Mumbai or out of Mumbai. 1. English Learning Skills 2. Speak English with Body Language 3. Fear of Speaking to Groups 4. Tips for Handling Public Speaking Questions 5. Don’t Let Manner Mistakes Cost You Money 6. Time Management 7. What is success? 8. Self-Management Checklist 9. Dressing Well 10. Good manners 11. Success Secrets 12. Ways To Stay Focused On Your Goals 13. 7 Ways to Boost Your Self Esteem Quickly 14. Do You Remember My Name? 15. Communication Skills Training 16. How to be Happy? 17. Watch Out Before You Speak 18. Cultivating Good General Work Attitude 19. How To Become A Leader 20. How to Improve Your Vocabulary 21. How to Overcome Shyness 22. Posture and Persona mantras 23. Listening skills 24. Developing a positive attitude 25. Believe in yourself! 26. Success 27. Motivation 28. 10 Keys To Keeping Morale Up During Times Of Difficulty And Change 29. The Pillars-Of-Self-Mastery power point presentation 30. The Secret film TOEFL and IELTS coaching for students preparing for the exams. Coaching is also available at the student’s residence. For details call Brian on 9223203441 / 9920927662 / 9323758803. Tuition for students of Std.IX, X, XI and XII in English in groups of 6 students per batch. For details call Brian on 9223203441 / 9920927662 / 9323758803. Counselling in any issue is available on phone. Call on 9223203441. List of clients Future Institute of Management Valuable Technologies Ltd. – one batch of 10 students Uni Design (Jewelry manufacturing company) 2 batches of 6 students SMC Global Securities Ltd. (Finance) – training for an individual arranged by the company Ernst & Young – language training for under privileged school/college students (on going) Manisha Analytical Laboratories – for 2 staff MWH – 2 batches of 6 students Wadhwa Construction – 2 batches of 6 students Netramind Technologies – SEO company – 3 batches of 6 students Software company – one batch of 5 students St.Franics ITI – one batch of 40 students iLEAD – 3 batches of 20 students and Individuals from various MNCs attend individual training in English Language and Soft Skills 0

2010-01-03T14:24:28+01:00

true

Spoken English including reading, writing, grammar, correct pronunciation (general / business English / commercial letter writing included) and soft skills to motivate and develop confidence for vernacular medium students [with some career guidance], administrative/secretarial staff, teachers, professors, software, hardware professionals, hotel, doctors, nurses, clerical and sales staff, businessmen, technical and non-technical personnel. The training is available at the students residence, college (visiting lecturer), institution or company location in Mumbai or out of Mumbai/India. The duration of the training is 30 days x 2 hours per day. For more details call Brian on 9223203441 / 9920927662 / 9323758803, Borivali, Mumbai, India. Weekend programs for corporate/institutions possible. Also available for very busy individuals a practical self-study program, For details call Brian on 9223203441 / 9920927662 / 9323758803.

Spoken English including reading, writing, grammar, correct pronunciation (general / business English / commercial letter writing included) and soft skills to motivate and develop confidence for vernacular medium students [with some career guidance], administrative/secretarial staff, teachers, professors, software, hardware professionals, hotel, doctors, nurses, clerical and sales staff, businessmen, technical and non-technical personnel. The training is available at the students residence, college (visiting lecturer), institution or company location in Mumbai or out of Mumbai/India. The duration of the training is 30 days x 2 hours per day. For more details call Brian on 9223203441 / 9920927662 / 9323758803, Borivali, Mumbai, India. Weekend programs for corporate/institutions possible. Also available for very busy individuals a practical self-study program, For details call Brian on 9223203441 / 9920927662 / 9323758803.

831 spoken-english-soft-skills

2010-02-02T18:50:00+01:00

published Personality Development/Soft Skills training for students and company staff. The duration of the training is 30 days x 2 hours per day. The training is available at the student's residence, colleges/institutions or company office. For more details call Brian on 922320341 / 9920927662 / 9323758803, Borivali, Mumbai, India. Listed below in random order are the topics covered to develop and motivate the skills of the student's or staff. The training is also available in Mumbai or out of Mumbai. 1. English Learning Skills 2. Speak English with Body Language 3. Fear of Speaking to Groups 4. Tips for Handling Public Speaking Questions 5. Don't Let Manner Mistakes Cost You Money 6. Time Management 7. What is success? 8. Self-Management Checklist 9. Dressing Well 10. Good manners 11. Success Secrets 12. Ways To Stay Focused On Your Goals 13. 7 Ways to Boost Your Self Esteem Quickly 14. Do You Remember My Name? 15. Communication Skills Training 16. How to be Happy? 17. Watch Out Before You Speak 18. Cultivating Good General Work Attitude 19. How To Become A Leader 20. How to Improve Your Vocabulary 21. How to Overcome Shyness 22. Posture and Persona mantras 23. Listening skills 24. Developing a positive attitude 25. Believe in yourself! 26. Success 27. Motivation 28. 10 Keys To Keeping Morale Up During Times Of Difficulty And Change 29. The Pillars-Of-Self-Mastery power point presentation 30. The Secret film TOEFL and IELTS coaching for students preparing for the exams. Coaching is also available at the student's residence. For details call Brian on 9223203441 / 9920927662 / 9323758803. Tuition for students of Std.IX, X, XI and XII in English in groups of 6 students per batch. For details call Brian on 9223203441 / 9920927662 / 9323758803. Counselling in any issue is available on phone. Call on 9223203441. List of clients Future Institute of Management Valuable Technologies Ltd. – one batch of 10 students Uni Design (Jewelry manufacturing company) 2 batches of 6 students SMC Global Securities Ltd. (Finance) – training for an individual arranged by the company Ernst & Young – language training for under privileged school/college students (on going) Manisha Analytical Laboratories – for 2 staff MWH – 2 batches of 6 students Wadhwa Construction – 2 batches of 6 students Netramind Technologies – SEO company – 3 batches of 6 students Software company – one batch of 5 students St.Franics ITI – one batch of 40 students iLEAD – 3 batches of 20 students and Individuals from various MNCs attend individual training in English Language and Soft Skills Spoken English, Soft Skills

2010-02-02T18:50:58+01:00

177

4 Museo del Corso is currently featuring the artist Niki de Saint Phalle. Located right on the ever popular (and busy) Via del Corso, the exhibit is accessible and intriguing. The artist uses a neon palette, sculpture, collage, drawing, painting, and installation. For a relatively inexpensive ten euro, it makes for an afternoon well spent. Go support this artist and the Museo del Corso! 0

2009-11-22T23:23:25+01:00

true

830 museo-del-corso

2009-11-22T23:23:25+01:00

published Museo del Corso is currently featuring the artist Niki de Saint Phalle. Located right on the ever popular (and busy) Via del Corso, the exhibit is accessible and intriguing. The artist uses a neon palette, sculpture, collage, drawing, painting, and installation. For a relatively inexpensive ten euro, it makes for an afternoon well spent. Go support this artist and the Museo del Corso! Museo del Corso

2009-11-22T23:23:25+01:00